Colibri acquires The Seth Thomas Clock Co.

The Colibri Group, Providence, R.I., has acquired the trademark and inventory of The Seth Thomas Clock Company from General Time.

The transaction was completed Tuesday in bankruptcy court, said Fred Levinger, president and CEO of The Colibri Group. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

General Time, established in 1931 through the merger of Seth Thomas and The Western Clock Company, filed for bankruptcy in early July. General Time was based in Norcross, Ga.

Seth Thomas, founded in 1813, is the longest established clockmaker in the United States. The company manufactures mantel, wall and tabletop clocks that range from traditional strike and chime models to unique styles crafted in contemporary metals, colorful resins, and aged finishes. In addition, the company produces timepieces for gift giving, office use, and travel. In 1988, Seth Thomas introduced ST Concepts, a collection of exclusive timepieces influenced by architectural and industrial design trends, and the use of mixed materials and themes.

Levinger said the Seth Thomas brand will be a “great enhancement” to Colibri’s clock business.

“I think the most important thing is that we bought a brand name that has strong consumer awareness,” Levinger said. “It has a tradition, it has a real historical significance, and it is an American brand.”

The Colibri Group is a manufacturer and distributor of 18k gold, 14k gold, and sterling silver women’s and men’s jewelry under the brand names Van Dell, Shiman, Krementz, and Dolan & Bullock. The company also manufactures and markets a large selection of pocket and pendant watches, lighters, and executive gifts under the Colibri and Linden brands. It’s also the exclusive distributor in the United States of S.T. Dupont luxury writing instruments and lighters.